Finding Home Security Systems That Fit Your Needs

If you believe the FBI statistics, a home or apartment is robbed about every 15 seconds. You may have already been targeted. If so, you know that finding your belongings ransacked and missing is a horrible feeling. To prevent this from happening again, the sensible thing most people do is protect themselves through home security systems. Don’t assume that because someone is usually home, a burglary won’t occur. Without an alarm they can and do.

Buying and using a gun may sound good, but a robber or intruder often turns the tables and steals the gun, or uses it on the owner. Much safer for everyone is a good alarm setup, which prevents people from gaining access in the first place. Knowing which one is right for you is essential. In order to make an educated decision, you need to answer a few basic questions about the present state of your security.

Take stock of the outdoor portion of your property. Look closely at the windows. Make sure any bolts and locks are in working order, and that they are not easily accessed from outside. Some windows require grills because they can be easily reached and broken. Outdoor lighting can discourage a would-be robber before he even begins. A basic item like a porch light should be in working order. Replace it or install a new one if it doesn’t function.

Many country and suburban dwellings, and even some city homes, typically have a lot of landscaping. These settings are ideal for outdoor systems which monitor the yard or grounds. No one knows the backyard like you do, so examine the layout to find the most strategic locations for sensors. Then you will be able to make intelligent suggestions to the security firm you choose. Most outdoor devices utilize motion-detecting technology, instantly activating floodlights if someone comes into the yard. Small animals used to set them off, but newer models can actually measure the size of an intruder.

Don’t forget that there are different types of devices. Some are placed in doors or windows, and are designed to go off if disturbed, or if the wrong kind of motion is detected. Others make use of a keypad-type on/off device. These must be set when you leave the house, and deactivated when your return. The codes are secure and difficult to break. In addition, video-camera surveillance devices that communicate with a TV or video recorder on- or off-site are becoming increasingly popular.

People living in multi-unit buildings often have alarm systems specifically designed for apartments. Access to most parts of a protected building is gained through the use of a card key. If the building has no protection, and the chances of putting in a large-scale security setup are low, then regular window and door protection is recommended. Sometimes apartment owners charge a fee for an alarm service, but it probably is worth the cost.

Keeping these factors in mind, what are some guidelines once you have made the decision to buy? Tech-savvy people may want to make installation into a do-it-yourself project, and could probably save a substantial amount doing so. But don’t make the assumption that putting in an alarm system is like turning on a computer. Unless the installer is thoroughly familiar with the technical side of things, the job can quickly become frustrating and time-consuming. The majority of people don’t want to spend that amount of time and effort. For them, a dealer will be eager to complete things efficiently.

Often, installation and maintenance requires a hefty monthly fee, or a contract. Knowing what is best in your own situation requires contacting the alarm specialist for an evaluation. And, a good rule to remember is to buy from a local, authorized dealer, even if you plan on doing the installing yourself. Experts recommend choosing a plan that charges a reasonable fee each month, and doesn’t come with a contract, so that the setup can be changed if necessary. Once in place and working, new home security systems will pay for themselves with peace of mind.